The Foreign Desk
Monocle’s global-affairs show with Andrew Mueller. Expert guests, in-depth analysis, and sharp commentary on major geopolitical issues.
Latest Episodes
In the Room: Falklands War
In the final episode of our special ‘In the Room’ series, we look back at the 10-week Falklands War between Argentina and the UK in 1982. Andrew Mueller speaks to Michael Heseltine, former deputy prime minister of the UK, David Omand, former director of the British government communications headquarters, and…
Explainer 384: Eritrean cultural festivals
Expat Eritreans around the world have been protesting against Eritrean cultural festivals held in their cities. Andrew Mueller explains why the events’ links to the country’s incumbent president, Isaias Afwerki, have incensed those who have left their homeland.
In the Room: Secret talks with Nelson Mandela
In part two of our ‘In the Room’ series, we speak to the key players involved in the secret talks that led to Nelson Mandela’s release from prison. Andrew Mueller speaks to Niël Barnard, the former head of South Africa’s National Intelligence Service, who conducted clandestine talks with Mandela, Willie…
Explainer 383: Sikhs vs Modi vs Trudeau
Andrew Mueller explains how protests by the Sikh diaspora of Canada led to a frosty reception for the country’s prime minister, Justin Trudeau, at the G20 summit in India.
In the Room: September 11 attacks
In part one of our special ‘In the Room’ series, we look back on the chilling moments that followed the September 11 terror attacks, meeting top aides who were rushed onto Air Force One with US president George W Bush, a Secret Service agent tasked with protecting first lady Laura…
Explainer 382: Friends like these
Andrew Mueller explains the growing relationship between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, and the potential implications that it may have for Russia.
The future of Syria
A wave of protests across government-controlled areas of Syria gathered momentum this week, with demonstrators demanding regime change. Is a future without Bashar al-Assad still possible for Syria? Andrew Mueller speaks to Leila Molana-Allen, Firas Maksad, Lina Khatib, and William Patey.
Explainer 381: Resurgence of the Islamic State
Andrew Mueller explains how a once-diminished Islamic State is re-emerging across Africa.
With Cod on Our Side
The global fishing industry has found itself at the heart of major debates and conflicts. In this special episode we explore the curious power of fish in politics. What makes these aquatic animals so politically sensitive? Are there really plenty more fish in the sea? Andrew Mueller speaks to Tomohiko…
Explainer 380: Guatemala’s new president
Guatemala has elected a new president, bringing hope to the country. But with five months to go until his inauguration, it remains to be seen how smooth the transfer of power will be. Andrew Mueller explains who Bernardo Arevalo is and what kind of president he might be.
